emulsifier

Emulsifying Wax NF

INCI: Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60 or Emulsifying Wax NF

What is it?

Emulsifying Wax NF is a pre-made blend of cetearyl alcohol and polysorbate 60. Polysorbate 60 is made by reacting a fatty acid with sorbitol to form a sorbitan ester, then reacting that with ethylene oxide to make it water-soluble. Combining it with cetearyl alcohol gives a single ingredient that emulsifies oil and...

How is it used?

Melt it into your oil phase along with your other oils and butters, heat your water phase to a similar temperature, then combine them while stirring.

Forms

Available forms and grades affect how this ingredient behaves and how it should be selected for a formula.

Appearance

Color, texture, and physical characteristics can vary between suppliers and product grades.

Usage rate

Recommended incorporation levels depend on product type, supplier guidance, and the intended result.

Why we use it

Formulators choose this ingredient for specific performance, sensory, and stability benefits.

Strengths and limitations

Its advantages, compatibility considerations, and practical tradeoffs should be weighed during development.

Alternatives and substitutions

Possible replacements depend on the ingredient's role, desired skin feel, and formulation system.

Storage and shelf life

Appropriate storage conditions help protect quality and performance throughout the ingredient's usable life.

Emulsifying Wax NF

What is it?

How is it used?

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